Communities Minister Gordon Lyons launches Pre Market Engagement for Irish Street regeneration

The Northern Ireland Executive has begun a consultation process with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council to explore the redevelopment of the Irish Street site in Downpatrick.

By Emma McCann1 min read

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Communities Minister Gordon Lyons with archaeologist Rhonda Robinson — Communities Minister Gordon Lyons with Department for Communities archaeologist Rhonda Robinson at the Belfast War Room archive facility. File photograph. Picture: Department for Communities · licence

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has confirmed the start of a Pre Market Engagement exercise regarding the future development of the Irish Street location in Downpatrick.

The initiative will proceed as a joint venture between the Department and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

Officials state that advancing this project would improve the area's attractiveness for visitors, residents and businesses.

The goal is to stimulate fresh investment while promoting regeneration and long-term sustainable expansion within the town.

To facilitate progress, the Department and the local authority intend to provide a capital grant of up to £5.2 million.

This funding is designed to assist in delivering a high-quality development scheme at the site.

Councillor Glyn Hanna, who chairs Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, has been identified as a key partner in the effort.

Further information regarding the engagement process will be available through the eTendersNI Portal.